Overview

The Bachelor of Health Science in Indigenous Health Studies is open to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students and provides students interested in the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with the knowledge and skills to effectively address Aboriginal Community health issues.

This course also complements study in related areas, for example Aboriginal Studies, Population Health, Psychology, Sociology and Education.

Assistance is given to Indigenous students via Commonwealth funded “away from base allowances” and the Woolyungah Indigenous Centre will assist students with providing tutors and access to support staff and resources.

The course coordinator and the support staff at the Woolyungah Indigenous Centre will help you find the best method of study to achieve your goals.

Entry Requirements / Assumed Knowledge

Domestic school leavers are recommended to have completed 2 units of Aboriginal Studies at HSC level. Alternative pathways exist for mature age domestic students. Even if you have not completed the current NSW HSC (or equivalent) in full, or you did not receive the required entry mark, you may still qualify for admission.

Course Requirements

The Bachelor of Health Science in Indigenous Health Studies requires the successful completion of 144 credit points in accordance with the table below.

A further 78 credit points of subjects chosen in consultation with the Undergraduate Indigenous Health Coordinator and approved by the Head of School.

Minor Study Areas

• Indigenous Health Studies

Non-indigenous health studies students can complete a minor study in Indigenous Health Studies. A minor in Indigenous Health Studies will consist of at least 24 credit points in subjects with the prefix 'NMIH' from the course structure of the Bachelor of Science in Indigenous Health Studies degree. At least 12 credit points will be at 200 level or higher. NMIH101 may not count towards the minor study. Subjects in the minor may not be cross-counted towards any other minor or major study. As not all subjects of the minor study are on offer each year, students are advised to first consult with the Indigenous Health Studies Course Coordinator about an appropriate pattern of study.

The Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences also offers minor studies in:

• Psychology (See Bachelor of Arts page in this handbook for further information)

English Language and Linguistics Elective Subjects

The Faculty of Arts offers a number of English Language and Linguistic (ELL) subjects in both Autumn and Spring sessions for both English-Speaking Background students and Non-English Speaking Background students.

Professional Recognition

Completion of the TAFE Advanced Diploma is linked to the Aboriginal Health Worker Award.

Employment Opportunities

Job opportunities exist in the community sector, working in Aboriginal Medical Services or with State or Federal health agencies. You may be interested in working in a rural or remote community or in community development, health promotion, planning or policy.

Whatever your choice, this degree will help you achieve your goals. Many of our students are already employed well before the completion of their degree.